April 15, 2004 – Shaker Heights High School has been named a Grammy Signature School for the second time. On the basis of a scoring system applied and critiqued by a panel of top music educators and professionals, Shaker is one of 40 public high schools from across the country (and the only one in Ohio) to be recognized for the depth, breadth, and quality of its music programs. The award, conferred by the Grammy Foundation with the support of 7UP, carries a $1000 grant to be used for the benefit of the music program.

"In Shaker Heights, we consider the fine and performing arts to be an integral part of education," said Superintendent of Schools Mark Freeman. "At a time when many schools are cutting back or eliminating the arts, our programs are thriving, because our community understands and supports the arts. This award is a great tribute to our hardworking student musicians and music educators." Shaker also won in 1998.

Music education in Shaker Heights begins in kindergarten, with regularly scheduled classes taught by specialists. Beginning in fifth grade, students may choose to take up a band or string instrument, or to join a chorus. Band, orchestra, and choir are part of the regular school day and instruction is free of charge, although some students elect to take private lessons at their own expense. Student ensembles present several concerts each year and perform at community events.

More than 600 of the High School's 1600 students participate in one or more musical ensembles, which include a 300-member marching band, wind ensemble, symphonic band, percussion ensemble, horn choir, jazz groups, orchestra, string ensemble and quartet, four choirs, men's and women's vocal ensembles and Chanticleers, a show choir. These groups consistently win high honors at regional and state competitions.

Shaker Heights High School music students also have opportunities for performance tours, financed through student fundraising. In past years Choir, band, and orchestra students have toured in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, England, and France. This year, 170 band members toured and performed in Italy, to warm and enthusiastic local crowds.

"Our Grammy Signature Schools have done an outstanding job of maintaining and developing their arts and music programs, despite a challenging economic climate," said Neil Portnow, President of the Grammy Foundation and the Recording Academy. "We applaud them for their commitment to music education, which makes a positive difference in the lives of young people, while ensuring these vital programs do not become cultural casualties in their districts."

The Grammy Foundation was established in 1989 to cultivate the understanding, appreciation and advancement of the contribution of recorded music to American on works to bring national attention to issues such as the value and impact of music and arts education. For more information, visit www.grammyfoundation.com.